The decision today by the County Court to convict and fine a Melbourne sign writing company $250,000 over its role in the collapse of a wall in Swanston St in 2013 that killed three pedestrians reflects the serious nature of the charge.

Following a comprehensive investigation, WorkSafe has charged the Hazelwood Power Corporation Pty Ltd with 10 breaches of the OHS Act 2004 in relation to preparedness for the fire which took hold in the Hazelwood open cut coal mine on 9 February 2014.

The sentence imposed today by the Melbourne Magistrates' Court in relation to the Essendon Football Club is a warning to every Victorian employer that they must provide a healthy and safe workplace for their employees.